Meaning of the Goodnight family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Goodnight coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Goodnight name meaning and origin
The family name Goodnight is of English origin and is derived from the Old English personal name Godwine, meaning "good friend" or "good companion."
History of family crests like the Goodnight coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Goodnight name variations and their meaning
The family name Goodnight has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is "Goodnite," which is a simplified spelling of the original name. Another variation is "Goodknight," which adds a "k" to the name, possibly to emphasize the connection to the word "knight" and its associations with chivalry and honor. "Goodnacht" is another variation that reflects the German influence on the name, as "nacht" means "night" in German. This variation may have originated from German immigrants who anglicized their name upon arrival in English-speaking countries. Additionally, "Goodnayt" is a variation that could have been influenced by Scottish or Irish accents, as the pronunciation of "night" can sometimes sound like "nayt" in these dialects. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of family names over time, as they are influenced by different languages, cultures, and regional accents.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
